Power and Neurology

[dewline]

Some of us already knew this to varying degrees. That a deficit of empathy has traditionally been condoned as "fitness to (govern/rule)" continues to wear at so many of us.

https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2022/nov/24/powerful-people-neuroscience-authority-privilege

I wonder how we might look at the members of the "new fascist international" through this neurological or neuro-biological lens.

Comments

[jhetley]

One of the problems with military command is that you have to be ready to send people out to kill and die. I was glad that even though I was an NCO, I wasn't in the chain of command.

[sara]

It means that we shouldn't expect them to behave like people, but I think none of us were expecting that anyhow.

[dewline]

The trouble is that they seem to make up a sizable fraction of the human race, anyway. If this is a thing we can verifiably test for, though, it becomes - if it isn't already - a problem we can find ways to manage. Hopefully without wrecking our own consciences in the process. The extra evidence is good to have at hand.

(Sidebar: I note that one of the researchers cited by name is based in Hamilton, Ontario at present because McMaster University.)

[malada]

Although the author of the piece uses science to reinforce her point, people in power often ignore science and go with their 'gut' - so they can remain clueless to the pain of others.

And this new line of fascists know all about causing pain and suffering on the powerless: that's the whole point of having power.

-m